The Dutch women’s speed skating team secured the silver medal in the team pursuit event at the Winter Olympics, acknowledging Canada’s stronger performance on the day, while their coach expressed mixed feelings about the outcome.
NOS Schaatsen, Netherlands
At the Winter Olympics, the Dutch women’s team pursuit squad, consisting of Joy Beune, Marijke Groenewoud, and Antoinette Rijpma-de Jong, finished second behind Canada, who defended their Olympic title by being nearly a second faster. Despite entering the Games as reigning world champions and favorites for gold, the Dutch team accepted that the Canadian team outperformed them on the day. Beune described the race as a hard-fought effort, stating that they gave their all in pursuit of the top spot.
The competition revealed challenges for the Dutch team early on, with only the third-fastest time in the quarterfinals highlighting that they were not at peak form. Following a challenging semi-final against Japan, the Dutch women faced Canada in the final. After leading the early stages, they were overtaken decisively in the final laps as the Canadians demonstrated greater endurance and speed. Rijpma-de Jong noted that Canada may have had the advantage of a less demanding semi-final, possibly contributing to their stronger finish.
Bondscoach (national coach) Rintje Ritsma expressed disappointment with the results, acknowledging the silver medal but also voicing frustration with the men’s team’s fourth-place finish. He recognized the efforts of the athletes but admitted he was not fully satisfied with the outcome. Ritsma has yet to decide on continuing as coach, reflecting on the pressure and criticism that come with the role.
For the Dutch skaters, the silver medal marks an improvement over the bronze they earned in Beijing 2022. It also acknowledges strong individual performances, with Groenewoud still working to reach her top form, and Beune having placed fourth in the 3,000 meters earlier in the Games. Rijpma-de Jong and Groenewoud were scheduled to compete in the 1,500 meters following the team pursuit event. Beune, whose Olympic competition concluded, expressed pride in winning her first Olympic medal with the team.
